Pricing Calculator — RFP Pricing Calculation Tool
A specialized skill that enhances the pricing calculation capabilities of the pricing-strategist agent.
Target Agent
- pricing-strategist — Cost estimation, bid price calculation, price simulation
Software Project Cost Estimation
Labor Cost Calculation
Labor Cost = Person-Months (MM) x Monthly Rate per Grade
Total MM = Scope Assessment → Function Point or Experience-based
Monthly Rate = Industry standard labor rate table (published annually)
| Grade | Typical Monthly Rate Range | Experience Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Senior (Principal) | $8,000-12,000 | 15+ years |
| Advanced | $6,500-9,000 | 10-15 years |
| Intermediate | $5,000-7,000 | 5-10 years |
| Junior | $3,500-5,500 | 1-5 years |
Cost Structure
Total Project Cost = Labor + Direct Expenses + Overhead + Profit + Tax
Labor: MM x Rate
Direct Expenses: Equipment, Software, Travel, Training (10-20% of labor)
Overhead: Labor x Rate (typically 110-120%)
Profit: (Labor + Overhead) x Rate (typically 25%)
Tax: Subtotal x Tax Rate
Bidding Strategy
Price Evaluation Methods
| Method | Formula | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Price | Score = (Lowest Bid / Your Bid) x Price Weight | Minimize price |
| Qualification Review | Pass/Fail threshold | Stay above minimum |
| Comprehensive | Weighted (Tech + Price) | Optimize balance |
Optimal Bid Price Simulation
Target Score = Technical Score + Price Score
Price Score = f(Your Bid, Estimated Price, Competitors)
Simulation Variables:
- Estimated price range
- Expected competitor bids (3 scenarios)
- Technical score assumptions
- Price evaluation formula specifics
Price Sensitivity Matrix
| Bid Rate (% of Est.) | Price Score | Tech Score Needed to Win | Risk |
|----------------------|------------|------------------------|------|
| 85% | High | Low | Margin squeeze |
| 90% | Medium-High | Medium | Balanced |
| 95% | Medium | Medium-High | Safe margin |
| 100% | Low | High | May lose on price |
Cost Validation Checklist
- All required personnel accounted for in labor calculation?
- Labor rates match published standards?
- Direct expenses include all anticipated costs?
- Overhead rate within acceptable range?
- Profit margin sustainable?
- Hidden costs (travel, overtime, warranty) factored in?
- Price competitive against estimated budget?